Medical Slimming

Although Ozempic and Wegovy both contain the same active ingredient — semaglutide — they are licensed for different medical purposes and used at different doses.

Ozempic is a medication for type 2 diabetes, helping control blood sugar and reduce cardiovascular risk. Weight loss can occur, but it is considered a secondary benefit.

Wegovy, on the other hand, is specifically licensed for medical weight loss in adults with obesity or those who have weight-related health conditions. It is used at a higher, targeted dose designed to significantly reduce appetite and support long-term weight management.

In simple terms:

• Ozempic = diabetes treatment
• Wegovy = weight-loss treatment

During your consultation at Harley Street Medical Doctors, our clinicians will assess which option is medically appropriate and safest for your individual needs.

Wegovy and Mounjaro are both modern, prescription-only weight-loss medications, but they work in slightly different ways.

Wegovy (semaglutide) is a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It mimics a natural gut hormone that helps regulate appetite, slow digestion, and improve feelings of fullness. This leads to reduced calorie intake and gradual, sustainable weight loss.

Mounjaro (tirzepatide) works on two hormone pathways — GLP-1 and GIP receptors. By targeting both systems, Mounjaro provides a stronger appetite-suppressing and metabolic effect, which is why clinical studies often show greater average weight loss compared with single-pathway medications like Wegovy.

In Summary:

• Wegovy: GLP-1 medication designed for medical weight loss
• Mounjaro: Dual-action GLP-1/GIP medication with potentially stronger effects on appetite and metabolism
• Both: Taken once weekly, prescribed after a medical assessment, and most effective when combined with healthy lifestyle changes

At Harley Street Medical Doctors, we guide patients through a full medical evaluation to determine which treatment is most suitable and safe for their individual goals and health profile.

No, Wegovy and Mounjaro are not limited to patients with diabetes.

Although some medications in this family were originally developed for type 2 diabetes, both Wegovy (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) are now specifically licensed for medical weight loss in people who do not have diabetes.

These treatments may be suitable for adults who:

• Have a BMI of 30 or above, or
• Have a BMI of 27 or above with a weight-related health condition (such as high blood pressure, sleep apnoea, or high cholesterol)

They work by regulating appetite and supporting healthier eating patterns — not by lowering blood sugar in people without diabetes.

At Harley Street Medical Doctors, your clinician will carry out a full assessment to ensure the treatment is safe, appropriate, and tailored to your individual health needs.

No, Wegovy and Mounjaro will not make you diabetic.

These medications do not cause diabetes. In fact, they can actually reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by supporting weight loss, improving insulin sensitivity, and lowering inflammation — all of which help protect long-term metabolic health.

It’s important to note:

• They do not raise blood sugar, and
• They do not trigger diabetes in people who do not have it

At Harley Street Medical Doctors, your treatment is fully supervised by a doctor who monitors your progress and ensures the medication is both safe and appropriate for your health.

No, Wegovy and Mounjaro are not addictive, and you will not become chemically dependent on them. These medications do not create cravings, withdrawal symptoms, or any form of addiction.

However, it is important to understand that:

• The medications work only while you are taking them, because they help regulate appetite and support healthier eating patterns.
• If treatment is stopped without maintaining lifestyle changes, some weight regain is likely, not because of dependence, but because the appetite-regulating effect wears off.

At Harley Street Medical Doctors, we support you with long-term lifestyle guidance so that, over time, you rely less on the medication and more on sustainable habits. Our goal is to help you reach a healthy weight safely — and maintain it confidently.

The amount of weight you may lose with Wegovy or Mounjaro varies from person to person, but clinical studies give us a good indication of what many patients can expect:

• Wegovy (semaglutide):
  Patients typically lose around 10–15% of their body weight over several months, when combined with healthy lifestyle changes.
• Mounjaro (tirzepatide):
  As a dual-action medication, it often leads to 15–20% or more weight loss in clinical trials, making it one of the most effective medical weight-loss treatments currently available.

Your results will depend on factors such as your starting weight, diet, activity levels, and how consistently you use the medication.

At Harley Street Medical Doctors, we monitor your progress closely and support you with tailored lifestyle guidance to help you achieve the best and safest results possible.

Most patients find Wegovy and Mounjaro injections very easy to tolerate. The medication is delivered through a small, fine needle, and the injection is placed just under the skin of the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.

Patients typically describe the sensation as:

• A slight pinch or mild pressure
• Less painful than a standard vaccine
• Over in just a few seconds

Some people may notice mild redness or tenderness at the injection site, but this usually settles quickly.

At Harley Street Medical Doctors, we show you exactly how to use the pen safely and comfortably, ensuring you feel confident and at ease before starting treatment.

Wegovy and Mounjaro are generally well-tolerated, but like all prescription medications, they can cause side effects, especially in the first few weeks as your dose is increased.

Common Side Effects
These are usually mild and temporary:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea or constipation
• Indigestion or bloating
• Reduced appetite
• Mild injection-site redness or tenderness

These effects often improve as your body adjusts, and our doctors help you manage them safely.

Less Common Risks
These are rarer but important to be aware of:

• Gallstones or gallbladder inflammation (related to rapid weight loss)
• Pancreatitis (severe abdominal pain—requires urgent medical attention)
• Kidney strain from dehydration if vomiting is severe
• Low blood sugar (mainly in people using diabetes medications)
• Possible thyroid-related effects (seen in animal studies, but not confirmed in humans)

Wegovy and Mounjaro are not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Your Safety Comes First
At Harley Street Medical Doctors, every patient receives:

• A full medical assessment before starting treatment
• Guidance on how to recognise early signs of side effects
• Regular follow-up to ensure the medication remains safe and effective

Our goal is to support safe, medically supervised weight loss, tailored to your individual health needs.

Some muscle loss can occur during any form of weight loss, whether through diet, lifestyle changes, or medication. However, Wegovy and Mounjaro do not directly cause muscle loss. The key is how you support your body while the weight comes off.

Most of the weight people lose on these treatments is body fat, but without the right nutrition and activity, a small amount of muscle loss is possible.

How We Help Protect Your Muscle
At Harley Street Medical Doctors, we guide you on how to maintain healthy muscle mass by focusing on:

• Adequate daily protein intake
• Regular resistance or strength-based exercises
• Gradual, controlled dose increases
• Balanced nutrition alongside treatment

With proper support, patients can lose weight safely while preserving strength, energy levels, and metabolic health.

There is currently no evidence that Wegovy or Mounjaro causes cancer in humans.
Animal studies have shown that GLP-1 receptor agonists (like semaglutide in Wegovy) can affect certain thyroid cells in rodents, but these findings have not been confirmed in people.
Clinical trials and real-world data in humans have not demonstrated an increased risk of cancer from these medications.

Important Safety Notes:

• These medications are not recommended if you have a personal or family history of certain thyroid cancers or multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN2).
• Your doctor will review your medical history carefully to ensure treatment is safe for you.

At Harley Street Medical Doctors, we monitor all patients closely and provide guidance on safe, medically supervised weight loss to minimise any potential risks.

At Harley Street Medical Doctors, whether you can start Wegovy or Mounjaro on the same day depends on your individual assessment.

Before starting treatment, our doctors will:

• Review your medical history and current medications
• Conduct a health assessment, which may include blood tests
• Discuss your weight-loss goals and expectations

Once your doctor confirms the treatment is safe and appropriate, we can usually provide the medication immediately and teach you how to use it at home.

This ensures that you start treatment safely, confidently, and with full support.

Yes, both Wegovy and Mounjaro should be stored in the refrigerator before use.

• Recommended storage: 2–8°C (36–46°F)
• Do not freeze the medication
• Keep it in the original pen to protect it from light

Once a pen is in use, it can usually be kept at room temperature (up to 30°C / 86°F) for a limited time, depending on the specific medication. Always follow the storage instructions provided with your prescription to ensure it remains safe and effective.

At Harley Street Medical Doctors, we provide full guidance on proper storage, handling, and safe injection techniques so you feel confident using the medication at home.

You can usually inject Wegovy or Mounjaro yourself at home.

Both medications come in pre-filled, easy-to-use injection pens designed for once-weekly administration. During your first consultation at Harley Street Medical Doctors, our doctors will:

• Show you how to use the pen safely
• Teach proper injection technique
• Explain how to rotate injection sites and manage any minor side effects

You will only need to return to the clinic for follow-up appointments, monitoring, or dose adjustments, not for every injection.

This approach gives you convenience and independence, while ensuring your treatment is medically supervised and safe.

Allergic reactions to Wegovy or Mounjaro are very rare, but as with any medication, they
are possible. Signs of an allergic reaction may include:

• Rash, redness, or itching at the injection site
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing

Before starting treatment, your doctor at Harley Street Medical Doctors will review your
medical history to check for any allergies or sensitivities.

If you experience any severe symptoms, you should seek immediate medical attention.
Mild injection-site reactions are more common and usually settle on their own.

We provide full guidance so you can use your medication safely and confidently.

At Harley Street Medical Doctors, your initial consultation for Wegovy or Mounjaro is a
comprehensive, one-on-one medical assessment. During your appointment, our doctors will:

• Review your medical history and current medications
• Measure your vital signs, weight, and BMI
• Discuss your weight-loss goals and lifestyle habits
• Explain how Wegovy or Mounjaro works, including potential benefits, side effects, and risks
• Decide whether the treatment is safe and suitable for you
• Provide guidance on injection technique, storage, and follow-up

The goal is to ensure a safe, personalised treatment plan tailored to your health and weight-loss objectives.

Cost

The consultation fee covers a full medical assessment and personalised guidance. Pricing can
vary depending on the length and complexity of your consultation. At Harley Street Medical
Doctors, we provide transparent pricing upfront and can discuss the total cost of your treatment,
including medication, during your consultation.

You will leave the appointment with a clear plan and understanding of the next steps for starting
treatment safely.

Medical Weightloss Screening Package

• 1 hour Consultation
• All relevant blood work

£465

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Yes, before starting Wegovy or Mounjaro, we usually recommend a blood test to ensure the
treatment is safe for you. Blood tests help us check for conditions that could affect how the
medication works or your risk of side effects.

Common Blood Tests We Usually Check

• Blood sugar / HbA1c – to assess diabetes risk or control
• Kidney function – to ensure your kidneys are healthy
• Liver function – to rule out liver issues
• Thyroid function – if there’s a history of thyroid disease
• Full blood count – to check overall health

Can You Bring Your Own Blood Test Results?

Yes, if you have recent blood tests (within the last 3 months), our doctors can review them.
However, we may still recommend repeat tests to ensure your results are up-to-date and
comprehensive for safe treatment.

At Harley Street Medical Doctors, your safety is our priority, and blood tests are part of our
careful, personalised assessment before starting any medical weight-loss therapy.

Mild side effects are common when starting Wegovy or Mounjaro, especially during the
first few weeks as your dose is gradually increased. These can include:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhoea or constipation
• Indigestion or bloating
• Mild injection-site redness or tenderness

If you experience mild side effects:

• Our team will advise on ways to manage them, such as adjusting your diet or timing
  of the injection.
• Side effects usually settle as your body adjusts to the medication.

If you experience severe or concerning side effects, such as:

• Severe abdominal pain (possible pancreatitis)
• Signs of an allergic reaction (swelling, rash, difficulty breathing)
• Persistent vomiting or dehydration

You should contact us immediately or seek urgent medical attention.

At Harley Street Medical Doctors, we provide continuous support throughout your treat-
ment, monitoring your response, adjusting your dose if needed, and ensuring your weight-
loss journey is safe and well-managed.

At Harley Street Medical Doctors, we make it simple and safe to continue your treatment.

• Follow-up appointments: Repeat prescriptions are issued after a review with your doctor, either in-person or via a teleconsultation. This ensures the medication is still safe and effective for you.
• Monitoring progress: During your follow-up, we check your weight, side effects, and any changes in your health.
• Prescription renewal: Once your doctor confirms it’s appropriate, you’ll receive a new supply of your medication.

We do not issue repeat prescriptions without a recent medical review (no greater than 6 motnhs), as this ensures your treatment remains safe, personalised, and effective.

This system allows you to continue your weight-loss journey with confidence while being fully supported by our medical team.

At Harley Street Medical Doctors, we recommend regular follow-up appointments to ensure your treatment with Wegovy or Mounjaro is safe, effective, and tailored to your progress.

Typically:

• Initial period: You may have a review every 4–6 weeks during the first few months, especially while your dose is being increased.
• Ongoing treatment: Once your dose is stable and you are adjusting well, follow-ups are usually every 2–3 months.

During these appointments, your doctor will:

• Monitor your weight and overall health
• Check for side effects or concerns
• Adjust your dose if needed
• Provide ongoing guidance on lifestyle and nutrition

Regular monitoring ensures you achieve the best results safely, while receiving expert support throughout your weight-loss journey.

Wegovy (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) are injectable medications designed to support weight loss by regulating appetite and metabolism.

• Wegovy: Mimics a natural gut hormone called GLP-1, which helps you feel full sooner, reduces cravings, and slows the emptying of your stomach.
• Mounjaro: Works on two hormone pathways — GLP-1 and GIP — giving a stronger effect on appetite suppression, satiety, and blood sugar control.

By targeting these systems, the medications help you:

• Eat less without feeling hungry
• Control cravings and portion sizes
• Support gradual, sustainable weight loss

When combined with healthy diet and lifestyle changes, these treatments can lead to significant and lasting weight reduction, under careful medical supervision at Harley Street Medical Doctors.

Wegovy and Mounjaro work best when combined with a balanced, healthy diet. While there is no strict “one-size-fits-all” plan, general guidance includes:

• Calorie control: Eat slightly fewer calories than your body needs to support gradual weight loss.
• High protein: Include lean protein at each meal to help preserve muscle mass.
• Plenty of vegetables and fibre: These help you feel fuller for longer.
• Limit processed foods and sugar: Reduces cravings and supports stable energy levels.
• Regular meals: Eating at consistent times can help reduce overeating.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water, especially if experiencing mild gastrointestinal side effects.

At Harley Street Medical Doctors, we provide personalised lifestyle advice and dietary support to ensure your treatment is effective, safe, and sustainable. Combining medication with healthy habits gives you the best chance of long-term weight-loss success.

Yes! Exercise is encouraged while taking Wegovy or Mounjaro. Physical activity helps:

• Maximise weight loss
• Preserve muscle mass
• Improve overall health, energy, and mood
• Support long-term weight maintenance

There are no restrictions on the type of exercise, but it’s best to start gradually if you are new to activity. A combination of:

• Cardiovascular exercise (walking, cycling, swimming)
• Strength or resistance training (to maintain muscle)
• Flexibility and balance exercises

…will give you the best results.

At Harley Street Medical Doctors, we provide guidance on safe and effective exercise plans tailored to your fitness level and weight-loss goals, helping you achieve results more safely and sustainably.

Yes, it is sometimes possible to switch between Wegovy (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide), but this should only be done under medical supervision.

Reasons for switching may include:

• Greater weight-loss goals with Mounjaro’s dual-action mechanism
• Side effects or tolerability on one medication
• Personalised treatment optimisation

At Harley Street Medical Doctors, our doctors carefully review your medical history, treatment response, and health goals before recommending any switch. We ensure the transition is safe, effective, and tailored to your needs, with monitoring to manage dose adjustments and minimise side effects.

Switching medications is not something to do on your own, and professional guidance is essential for safety and optimal results.

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Which one is better?

Both Wegovy (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) are highly effective weight-loss medications, but which is “better” depends on your individual health, goals, and how your body responds.

• Wegovy:
  • Works on the GLP-1 hormone pathway
  • Effective for significant weight loss (typically 10–15% of body weight)
  • Well-tolerated by many patients
• Mounjaro:
  • Dual-action on GLP-1 and GIP pathways
  • Often produces greater weight loss in clinical studies (up to 20% or more)
  • May be preferred for patients seeking more aggressive weight reduction

At Harley Street Medical Doctors, we assess your medical history, health conditions, lifestyle, and goals to determine which medication is safest and most effective for you.

There is no “one-size-fits-all” answer — the best medication is the one that works for you safely and sustainably.

Yes, in most cases, Wegovy or Mounjaro can be taken alongside testosterone therapy, but this should always be managed under medical supervision.

Your doctor will consider:

• Current testosterone dose and treatment schedule
• Your overall health, blood sugar, and cardiovascular status
• Potential side effects or interactions

At Harley Street Medical Doctors, we carefully review all medications and therapies you are taking to ensure that your weight-loss treatment is safe, effective, and compatible with testosterone therapy.

Regular monitoring allows us to adjust your plan if needed, so you can achieve your weight-loss and health goals safely.

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Can I take it when I am on Human Growth Hormone?

In many cases, Wegovy or Mounjaro can be taken alongside Human Growth Hormone (HGH), but this must always be managed under medical supervision.

Your doctor will consider:

• Your current HGH dose and treatment schedule
• Overall health, including blood sugar, heart, and kidney function
• Potential side effects or interactions

At Harley Street Medical Doctors, we carefully review all medications and therapies you are taking. This ensures your weight-loss treatment is safe, effective, and tailored to your health needs.

Ongoing monitoring allows us to make adjustments if necessary, helping you achieve your weight-loss and wellness goals safely.

No, Wegovy and Mounjaro are not recommended during pregnancy or while trying to conceive.

• These medications have not been studied in pregnant women, and their safety for the baby is unknown.
• If you become pregnant while taking them, you should stop treatment immediately and inform your doctor.
• Your doctor can discuss alternative, safe weight-management strategies during pregnancy or while planning a pregnancy.

At Harley Street Medical Doctors, your safety and the health of your baby are our priority. We provide guidance and support to ensure weight management is handled safely during this time.